The drool is flowing, the cheeks are rosy, and a normally happy baby is suddenly clingy, fussy, and chewing on everything in sight. If you’re experiencing this, you’ve likely entered the world of teething—a rite of passage for both babies and parents. While it’s a natural developmental process, it can bring a significant amount of discomfort and sleepless nights. The good news is that there are many safe and effective ways to provide teething relief.
This expert-backed guide will help you navigate the journey. We’ll answer the most common questions, like when do babies start teething, identify the key signs to look for, and give you a definitive list of safe remedies—and a crucial list of what to avoid.
Part 1: The Teething Timeline: What to Expect
Every baby is unique, and so is their teething journey. There is a wide range of normal, and it’s important not to compare your baby’s timeline to others. The answer to when do babies start teething is typically between 4 and 7 months of age, but some babies can start as early as 3 months, and others may not get their first tooth until they are a year old.
The process is a marathon, not a sprint. The full set of 20 primary teeth usually erupts by the time a child is around three years old. Here is a general teething timeline to help you anticipate what’s next:
- Front Teeth (Incisors): The bottom front teeth usually appear first, followed by the top front teeth, typically between 6 and 12 months.
- Side Teeth (Lateral Incisors): These pop up next to the front teeth, usually between 9 and 16 months.
- First Molars: The molars (the flat teeth used for grinding) are next, often appearing between 13 and 19 months.
- Canines: The pointy teeth come in around 16 to 23 months.
- Second Molars: The final teeth to erupt, usually between 23 and 33 months.
Part 2: Baby Teething Symptoms: What to Look For
While you can’t always see a tooth coming, your baby’s behavior will often give you a clue. The following baby teething symptoms are the most common indicators that a tooth is on its way.
- Excessive Drooling: More drool than usual is a very common sign. To prevent skin irritation, gently wipe your baby’s chin throughout the day.
- Crankiness and Irritability: The pain and discomfort can make a baby fussy and easily upset.
- Chewing & Gnawing: A baby will instinctively chew on anything they can get their hands on—or in their mouth—to relieve the pressure on their gums.
- Swollen, Tender Gums: The gums around the erupting tooth may look red or swollen. You might even be able to see a small, white bump where the tooth is about to break through.
- Changes in Eating and Sleeping: A baby may refuse to eat or drink due to a sore mouth, and sleep may be disrupted by discomfort.
The Teething Fever Myth
It is a common belief that teething causes a high fever. Pediatric experts and the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) have debunked this. While a baby might have a slight increase in temperature (a low-grade fever) due to inflammation, a true fever of 100.4°F (38°C) or higher is not caused by teething. A high temperature is a sign of an illness, and you should always consult your pediatrician to determine the cause.
Part 3: The Teething Relief Toolbox: Safe & Effective Remedies
When your baby is in pain, you’ll want to do anything to make them feel better. Here is a definitive list of expert-backed methods for teething pain management.
1. Gentle Gum Massage & Pressure
This is the most direct way to provide comfort.
- Clean Finger: Wash your hands thoroughly and gently rub or massage your baby’s gums with your finger. The pressure can be a huge source of relief.
- Cold, Wet Cloth: Take a clean washcloth, wet it, and place it in the refrigerator for about an hour. The coolness and texture are very soothing for sore gums.
2. Cold Therapy
Cold can help to numb the area and reduce swelling.
- Refrigerated Teething Rings: These are a great option. Choose one that is made of a solid, safe material and place it in the refrigerator (not the freezer). A rock-hard frozen item can be too harsh on a baby’s gums.
- Chilled Foods: If your baby is old enough to eat solids, a chilled piece of cucumber, a banana, or a cold applesauce can provide a welcome distraction and soothing sensation.
3. Safe Teething Toys
Chewing is an instinctual way for a baby to relieve pressure. Providing safe teething toys is a great way to meet this need.
- What to look for: Choose a toy made from food-grade silicone, natural rubber, or untreated wood. Ensure it is BPA-free, easy to clean, and large enough that it cannot be swallowed or pose a choking hazard.
4. Natural Teething Remedies
For parents seeking a natural approach, a few options can provide comfort.
- Chamomile: A small amount of diluted, cool chamomile tea can have a calming effect. You can also freeze it into a popsicle mold for older babies (just be sure to check with your pediatrician first).
- Spoon Massage: Gently massage the gums with the back of a cool metal spoon.
5. Over-the-Counter Pain Relief
When home remedies aren’t enough, your pediatrician may recommend an over-the-counter pain reliever.
- Pediatric Acetaminophen or Ibuprofen: Always consult your doctor for the correct dosage based on your baby’s weight. These should be used as a last resort, not as a first-line defense.
Part 4: What to Avoid: Dangerous Teething Remedies
Knowing what to avoid is just as important as knowing what to do. The following remedies are not recommended and can pose a serious risk to your baby.
- Teething Gels: The FDA warns against using topical pain relievers that contain benzocaine. Products marketed as best teething gels can be quickly washed away by saliva and may numb a baby’s throat, making swallowing difficult.
- Amber Teething Necklaces: The risk of strangulation and choking far outweighs any unproven benefit. The American Academy of Pediatrics strongly advises against using any type of teething necklace, whether amber, wood, or silicone.
- Homeopathic Tablets: These are not regulated by the FDA and can contain belladonna, which can be toxic.
- Frozen Hard Items: Freezing a solid object, such as a frozen banana, makes it rock-hard and can cause more harm than good by bruising or damaging a baby’s gums and developing teeth.
The Bottom Line
Teething is a challenging but temporary phase. By understanding the baby teething symptoms, you can provide proactive and safe teething relief using a variety of expert-backed techniques. Stick to gentle pressure, cold therapy, and pediatrician-approved pain medication when needed. By choosing safe teething toys and, most importantly, avoiding dangerous remedies, you can help your baby feel better and make it through this difficult period with confidence.
Disclaimer: The following information is for educational purposes only and should not be considered a substitute for professional medical advice. If you have concerns about your baby’s health, including a fever or other unusual symptoms, always consult with your pediatrician.